According to a local Basque paper, El Correo, Arsenal left back Nacho Monreal could be heading to Athletic Bilbao soon.
Arsenal have been linked with a move for Napoli full back, Faouzi Ghoulam and it appears that Monreal will demand a move if the Gunners manage to land Ghoulam.
Arsene Wenger is looking to improve defensively and has identified the Algerian as a potential addition this summer. Monreal, already unhappy with his game time will be looking to return home if he sees himself falling further down the pecking order.
According to the Basque outlet, Bilbao are preparing a 10 million euro offer for the Spanish left back and are keen to take him back to Spain.
Bilbao operate with a strict transfer policy of signing players of Basque heritage only and a player of Monreal’s quality is an extremely attractive prospect for the Spanish outfit, especially because of his Basque roots.
Monreal has been a reliable presence for the Gunners and has chalked up around 86 appearances since his move from Malaga.
It will be interesting to see if Wenger follows up his interest in Ghoulam and tables a formal offer. But there is little doubt that Monreal will not be allowed to leave unless someone arrives in his position, especially with Gibbs’ injury issues.
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